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Shockwave Therapy

Our specialist physiotherapists in Doncaster will provide accurate assessment, skilled techniques and appropriate advice. Empowering our clients with honest, accurate information and a positive mindset is central to achieving the most successful outcomes possible, as quickly as possible. And we never overtreat!

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy is an evidence-based procedure that uses audible high-energy sound waves, passed through the skin, to an injured tendon or ligament.

Shockwaves have been used in medicine to break down kidney stones. More recently, in musculoskeletal medicine, they are used to stimulate the metabolism and blood circulation to damaged tissue to encourage it to regenerate and heal. Essentially, this breaks up scar tissue within the injured tendon or ligament to enable it to re-heal without the scarring.

Up to 80% of patients report significant improvement in their symptoms after just 3 treatments sessions, with many reporting pain relief straight after their first treatment.

Will Shockwave Therapy Help Me?

Most tendon problems throughout the body will benefit from shockwave therapy.

The most common are:

  • Plantar Fasciitis/heel-pain
  • Achilles Tendinopathy
  • Patella Tendinopathy
  • Adductor Tendinopathy
  • Hamstring Tendinopathy
  • Glute Tendinopathy/Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
  • De Quervains Tenosynovitis
  • Tennis Elbow
  • Golfers Elbow
  • Shoulder/Rotator Cuff Tendinopathies including Calcific Tendinitis

What to expect at your assessment

Upon entering the clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team, and will be asked to take a seat in our waiting area before being taken to a treatment room by your physiotherapist.
We recommend wearing clothing that allows our physiotherapist to assess your condition easily, as shockwave therapy must be applied directly to the skin. (e.g., shorts if your appointment is for your lower body).
We will then take this moment to discuss how your injury/condition occurred, the nature and location of your pain, and how it affects your daily life and sporting activities. We will also review your medical history to ensure that shockwave therapy is suitable for you.

What are the benefits of Shockwave Therapy?

Pain relief

A combination of neuromodulation, a reduction in substance P and an increase in blood flow makes shockwave a safe and effective non-invasive, non-pharmacological treatment for pain relief.

Expedites Healing

Shockwave Therapy speeds up the body’s natural healing process.

Minimally Invasive

Treatment is as an outpatient and is a realistic alternative to surgery.

Compliments Physio Treatment

Shockwave Therapy can be supplementary to your Physiotherapy treatment to reduce recovery time

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about this treatment. These FAQs are designed to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect and help you prepare for your visit.

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
Extracorporeal refers to a medical procedure that is performed outside of the body (i.e. non-invasive). So Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) simply means Shockwave Therapy that is applied on the outside of the injured area.
Is Shockwave Therapy suitable for everyone?
  • Not suitable if you are pregnant.
  • May not be suitable if you have blood disorders or take blood-thinning medication.
  • Your physiotherapist will check suitability at your assessment.
Is Shockwave Therapy Safe?
  • Yes, it is widely used and well-researched.
  • Safe when carried out by trained professionals.
  • Risks are minimal and will be explained beforehand.
How many Shockwave Therapy treatments will I require?
You will usually need a course of 3-5 treatments. Treatments will take place 7-10 days apart.
Will my insurance cover Shockwave Therapy?
Insurance companies including BUPA and AXA PPP will cover some sessions of Shockwave Therapy. Contact them directly for more information and to get a pre-authorisation code for treatment.

If your cover is with another provider, you may wish to liaise with them to establish if they will fund your Shockwave Therapy treatment.

What is the cost of Shockwave Therapy?

Treatment takes place in our Doncaster clinic. If your insurance company will not cover the costs of your Shockwave Therapy treatment, we offer competitively priced one off treatments at £65 for 30 minutes.

What happens following Shockwave Therapy?
You will be able to get up, leave the clinic and return to your normal activities immediately following the session. If you are experiencing an increase in pain, take some over-the-counter painkillers, like paracetamol, but not anti-inflammatories.

Refrain from high-intensity or aggravating activities for the first 48 hours. Your physiotherapist will advise you on when is best to resume your home exercise programme.

If you would like to learn more about shockwave therapy, or how shockwave therapy can support your recovery, call our friendly reception team about booking an initial assessment on 01302 434030.

About Chapman Physiotherapy

At Chapman Physiotherapy Ltd we pride ourselves on offering a first class physiotherapy service in South Yorkshire. Based in Doncaster, our easily accessible location provides full disabled facilities and appointments are available from early morning to late evening.